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you to let me live long enough to explain what has happened. After that, you may do with me as you will." |
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Surprise held Ian frozen as he watched his hauberk being pushed in under the door through the opening that was large enough for a pot but not large enough for a man. Next came his swordbelt and his scabbarded weapons. When he made no move to seize them, a pole was used to push them further in and away to the side where Ian would be relatively safe from an arrow shot. |
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"It is no trick," Sir Peter said pleadingly. "I will tell you through the door if you do not wish me to come in. I only desire that you be less angry so that you will understand what I say." |
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"Where is Lady Alinor?" Ian asked. |
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"I do not know, my lord. I thought sure she would be here already. The first night, a messenger came for you, and I turned him away. I thought, since it was known you were here, that would bring her in haste without need for me to write any threats or lies." |
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It sounded like the truth. Ian should have felt relief, but he was swamped by pain. It seemed incredible that Alinor should hate him so much that she would not even send some men to discover what had happened to him. Two weeks, nearly two weeks, and not even a letter to Sir Peter to ask |
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"Please, my lord," Sir Peter pleaded, "please listen. Because" |
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"Here, my lord, well cared for. I would send them in to you, but I am afeared they will do themselves some hurt in their rage. My lord, you may come out, if only you will promise not to leave the keep until you listen to me. We are besieged." |
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"Lord Gwenwynwyn. I am a fool! Doubly and triply duped!" Sir Peter cried. "I deserve whatever will befall me, for I have violated my whole life's beliefs to buy safety for my children, and instead I have purchased |
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